Stay Safe on the River Medway

The River Medway can be very busy during events and warm weather. Whether you are visiting the riverside, travelling by boat, paddling, fishing or using another type of craft, please take extra care and respect other river users.

Boaters and Other River Users

The River Medway is a working navigation. Boat operators and other river users must navigate responsibly and follow Environment Agency navigation rules, local byelaws, signs and any temporary restrictions.

• Observe the speed limit. The speed limit on the Medway Navigation is 5 knots.
• Keep a proper lookout for other vessels, paddle craft and people near the water.
• Slow down when passing smaller craft and moored vessels.
• Avoid creating excessive wash.
• Keep to the correct side of the navigation where required and allow other vessels sufficient space.
• Follow instructions at locks, bridges and other navigation structures.
• Obey temporary navigation restrictions, closures and instructions from authorised personnel.
• Do not obstruct the navigation channel.

Boat Registration and Licence Requirements

Wear a Lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device

Wearing suitable flotation equipment can save your life if you unexpectedly enter the water.

• Wear a correctly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device suitable for your activity.
• Check that it is the correct size and buoyancy for the person wearing it.
• Children should wear appropriately sized equipment and remain under close adult supervision.
• Check lifejackets and flotation devices before use and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not rely on inflatable toys or swimming aids as lifesaving equipment.

Mooring Safely

Moor responsibly and follow all signs and restrictions. Mooring restrictions may be introduced during events or periods of increased river traffic.

• Only moor where you are permitted to do so.
• Follow all temporary and permanent mooring restrictions.
• Observe maximum stay times displayed at moorings.
• Do not use private banks or private moorings without permission.
• Moor your vessel securely.
• Do not obstruct the navigation channel.
• Keep landing stages, access points and emergency routes clear.
• Do not position ropes or equipment where they could create a trip hazard.

Do Not Jump or Dive Into the River

Swimming Around Boats

Do not swim between moored boats or close to moving vessels. People in the water can be extremely difficult for boat operators to see.

• Never swim between moored boats.
• Stay well away from moving vessels.
• Keep away from propellers and engines.
• Do not swim near locks, weirs, sluices or other navigation structures.

Children and Vulnerable People

Children and vulnerable people must be supervised closely at all times when they are near the river.

• Keep children away from unprotected river edges where possible.
• Do not allow children to play unsupervised near the water.
• Make sure suitable lifejackets or personal flotation devices are worn when appropriate.
• Keep vulnerable people within sight and close enough for you to assist them quickly.
• Take extra care in crowded areas, on pontoons and around moored vessels.

Staying Safe on the Riverbank

• Stay back from the river's edge, particularly in crowded areas.
• Take care on wet, muddy or uneven surfaces.
• Do not climb over safety barriers or enter restricted areas.
• Keep dogs under control near the water.
• Never encourage someone to jump into the river.
• Keep access to lifesaving equipment clear.